Hi there again! I'm really excited to share today's post with you. It's an item from my 30B430 list, and one of the very first I crossed off. Horseback riding on the beach has always sounded so dreamy to me, and what better time to do it than on your honeymoon. So that is just what we did! We found a sweet little stable company on the far north end of the island to take us on our journey, and boy did they deliver! Our ride took us on the sea side of the island along the beach, and around to the bay side through marshes. It was so beautiful, and such a great contrast to see both landscapes.

The ride was a fairly long one, a couple of hours if I remember correctly, and the immense butt and thigh pain was well worth the views & experience. Yes, it had been many, many years since I'd ridden, so I way pretty miserable by the end of the ride. Again, totally worth it, and I'd do it again! We elected to do a sunset ride, and the weather was perfect. We enjoyed breezes along the beach, and amazing sunset backdrops along the banks of the bay. You can find a variety of options for horseback riding on SPI. Since it can get pretty warm during the days in Texas, I'd recommend the sunset ride as we did. No matter what you choose, you'll love the experience!

If you are interested in more ideas for things to do on South Padre Island you can contact me here to book your own beach vacation!

Hi there! I hope this week has been good to you. I'm wrapping my work week up, and getting ready for a fun filled weekend. We are heading to the water park tomorrow, and that should be a great time However, I'm truly longing for the beach, but some fun posts about South Padre Island will have to do for now. :)

We've been to this famous Spring Break destination a couple of times, but the trip I want to share is a special one. For our honeymoon, we made the long 10 hour drive to a condo, which we were gifted a stay at, on South Padre Island. It wasn't the ideal honeymoon in my mind, but it was still beautiful and we were together, which is all that matters. Since we were there in late April, the weather wasn't particularly the best, but we made the most of it. We found things to do indoors when necessary, and took advantage of the sun when it was out. There are so many things to do and see on the island and in the neighboring areas, and it's sugary sand is what dreams are made of.

Though the beaches were pretty messy from the wind dredging up seaweed while we visited, the beach cleaners did a great job if keeping it well kept. The water temp was perfect for a quick dip, and scenery was as dreamy as ever. In addition to sunning and swimming, we enjoyed many other water and beach activities, including horseback riding, dolphin watching, eco-tour boat rides, and fishing. We also played kids again for a few hours on a fun pirate ship! My favorite part of the trip, aside from being together of course, was visiting Sea Turtle, Inc. a sea turtle rescue facility on the island.

I'll be back tomorrow with more in depth details from our trip there. For now, I hope you'll enjoy these photo highlights!

If you are interested in more ideas for things to do on South Padre Island you can contact me here to book your own beach vacation!

Welcome back! I can't believe it's already time to wrap up another wonderful trip! Our most recent trip to Las Vegas was nothing short of spectacular. Between the shows, the hot air balloon ride, and the fabulous food, every moment was a blast! Based on our two trips there, I've put together a list of our main favorites for hotels, restaurants, museums, and more.

StaySplurgeBellagio: This is still my top pick! This posh spot is perfect for a splurge. Everything about this resort screams luxury, and no matter what room you choose, you'll feel pampered. Opt for a fountain room for added wow factor.The Venetian: This luxury hotel takes out all the stops! From floor to ceiling, no detail is left untouched. Designs centered around Venice, Italy, including the gondola ride out front, leaving you feeling as if you've stepped foot into this beautiful Italian city. A stay in any of the suites will leave you feeling luxurious and special.StealFlamingo: This is where we stayed on our latest trip to Vegas. I have to admit I was a bit disappointed, but I really think that's because I couldn't help compare it to the Bellagio from our first stay. Well there's just no comparison, but this is still a fab option! Step into this retro hotel for a step back in time to old Las Vegas. There's even a conservatory for the Flamingo's flamingos, not to mention the pools are some of the best on the strip!Harrah's: This budget hotel is right in the heart of the strip. It's Mardi Gras theme is sure to make your stay a blast, and it's location just can't be beat.

SeeThe Strip: Travel all over the world in just one day! From far off places like Paris & Egypt, to Italy & Treasure Island, you'll enjoy all the strip has to offer. Whether you are there to party or with your family, there is something for everyone!Bellagio Conservatory: This attraction is one not to miss! It's my top recommendation for Vegas, and it's FREE! The conservatory boasts a themed garden, butterfly sanctuary, and flowers for days!
Absinthe: Not for the faint or fickle at heart, Absinthe is a HILARIOUS R-rated show at Caesars Palace. You will die laughing the entire time at the shows circus ringleader, be mesmerized by the burlesque & cabaret dancers, and blown away by the acrobats.

ShopGrande Canal Shoppes: Nestled between The Venetian & The Palazzo hotels, this mall features a large variety of shops and restaurants. Whether you want to splurge or just window shop, luxury is at every turn at these amazing shops.Boulder City, Nevada: This quaint little town, home of the Hoover Dam, features sweet little boutiques, antique stores, and the most darling ice cream shop you've ever seen. Boulder City is booming with history, and you may catch a glimpse of Big Horn Sheep.Fashion Show: With over 250 stores, there is something for everyone at this fashion forward mall. The location, just past The Venetian and Treasure Island can't be beat. My favorites are Macy's & Dillard's!

Eat
Sammy's LA Pastrami • Off Strip: We heard about this place from the Travel Channel, so we knew we couldn't miss it. It did not disappoint! This is a whole in the wall joint, and it's "seasoned" look adds to the flavor. Try the Steak Fajita Pita, and the Bacon Cheddar Fries are to die for!
Serendipity • Caesars Palace: UPDATE: Serendipity Las Vegas is permanently closed. This original-to-New York staple shouldn't be missed! Serendipity 3 at Caesars Palace is a much newer, fresher feel to it's NY counterpart, but it's classic Frozen Hot Chocolate is just the same. Check out their amazing brunch menu as well. They have donuts as big as your face that happen to be the best I've ever had! Not to mention a fun twist on eggs Benedict, my favorite vacation brunch treat.Hexx • Paris: You can't miss Hexx right on the Strip with outside tables that have prime viewing of the famous Bellagio Fountains. We enjoyed an amazing late brunch there where I had my first bite of chilaquiles. #wherehaveibeen Right next door is an amazing candy shop, Hexx Chocolate. Load up on a sugar rush of immense varieties, and splurge on creating your own ice cream sandwich with homemade cookies!

History + NatureNational Atomic Testing Museum: This spot is just off the strip, a couple of blocks behind The Flamingo. It's a great museum with an abundance of information and exhibits from the Atomic Bomb era. You'll also find a whole exhibition on Area 51, but put your cameras away for this portion. No photos allow in Area 51, which makes this part of the museum that much more mysterious!Valley of Fire: Northeast of Vegas is a beautiful state park named the Valley of Fire. It's name fits it perfectly! The colors of rock formation here are stunning. Find Indian petroglyphs, white sands, and abundant wildlife. The drive through the park is nothing short of beautiful. Be sure to stop here and there for a few hikes. Don't forget to bring snacks and lots of water.Grand Canyon: About a two and half-three hour drive from Las Vegas, or a short helicopter ride from Boulder City, the Grand Canyon is an amazing place to see if you want to get away from the bright lights during your stay in Vegas. Find yourself on the South Rim at the Skywalk at Eagle Point, and take a walk across a glass bridge shelf over the canyon. The Grand Canyon is a must see for everyone!

Touristy MustsBellagio Fountains: This top attraction will not disappoint! The dancing fountains are even more spectacular in person! Take in a show at night for added Las Vegas sparkle!Neon Boneyard: Though technically still on Las Vegas Boulevard albeit far, far on the end, this museum is home to vintage, some restored, neon signs. We enjoyed a day and night tour. The night tour was great because the restored signs were lit up to their former glory. The day tour was amazing as you could see the true detail in all of the signs. If you are going to pick one or the other, I recommend the day tour over the night. It's a little pricey and not as large as I envisioned, but it's well worth the visit.High Roller: Catch gorgeous views of the mountains all over Clark County all while enjoying a drink & ride in the Western Hemisphere's London Eye. Take the 30 minute ride around for spectacular views of the scenery, the strip, and the fab nearby hotel pools.

If you are interested in more ideas for things to do in Las Vegas you can contact me here to book your own vacation in Sin City!

Hi there! It's just about time to share the list bit of my latest trip to Las Vegas, and I'm sort of saving the best for last. I'll be wrapping the trip with my list of favorite places to stay, eat, shop, and see tomorrow. But today I want to share the big bang of our trip, a hot air balloon ride! This was by far one of the highlights of the trip for me, not to mention it was on our wedding anniversary. Such an incredible way to celebrate our special marriage. We used this Vegas Hot Air Balloon Ride tour, and couldn't have asked for a better experience. Our ride was first thing in the morning as the sun rose, but the early morning wake time was totally worth it!

The tour includes hotel pick up (love this benefit!) for a ride to the office. After arriving at the balloon company's offices, we were split up into groups for each balloon. From there, we were driven to the balloon's launch site where we helped with airing up the balloon. This part was almost just as magical as the ride itself! It is amazing how they handle such a massive balloon. Yes, massive! I never imagined it would be SO big, and the photos don't do the size justice. I think it is one of those things you have to see up close & personal for yourself.
Once the balloon was good to go, we were placed in the basket which is actually sectioned off for each passenger. I imagined having free reign to move around, but it makes so much more sense to have your own "seat" if you will. It keep the balloon balanced, and it really makes things run much smoother as you don't have anyone in your personal space. The couples were placed side by side, so we were still together. Then, the magic happened!
I truly am not sure what I had envisioned. I did anticipate being very nervous. However, I never was! The preparation for take off with simple and easy with such a nice staff, and the take off was smooth sailing. Having such great guides really makes a difference. Anyway, as we got into the air the views were spectacular! In one direction the Las Vegas strip was coming to life with the morning sun, and the mountains were waking in the other. The greatest treat was catching a glimpse of a snow capped mountain, Charleston Peak. We also saw the homes of Penn & Teller, respectively, as well as beautiful parks, golf courses, homes, and wildlife. I also enjoyed watching the other balloons, as several took flight that morning, all going in different directions. It was a fabulous way to see Las Vegas in a different, new-to-us view and an experience that won't soon be forgotten.
As our ride came to a close, our chase van met us below in a field. We had a SUPER smooth landing. I almost hadn't even realized we'd touched down, a sure sign of a fabulous pilot! By the time we climbed out of the basket, it was already getting quite warm, and this is when the work began. Here the balloon had to be taken down, deflated, and packed up. The guides have this down to a science I tell you! It was great for us to get to be apart of it as well. It made the experience even more special. To complete the deflating process, we each laid on the tied up balloon that was on the ground in a long strip. Quite a fun and neat process! Then the balloon was rolled up nice and compact into its bag, and tucked away into the trailer.
After the work was done, the pilot had us all come together for a traditional champagne (and mimosas) toast and a sweet poem:

"The winds have welcomed you with softness
The sun has blessed you with its warm hands
You have flown so high and so well
That God has joined you in your laughter
and set you gently back into the loving arms of mother earth."

It was so lovely! The pilot said this is a tradition after every hot air balloon ride in the world. What a nice thought to be apart of such a tradition! Our experience on this ride was nothing short of spectacular, a sure bucket list item checked off! If you're headed to Vegas I highly recommend taking a few hours to see these amazing views yourself, and you'll love this great tour company. Check out the sunset ride during the summer months as well! Thank you so much for coming on this journey with me. I hope you enjoyed hearing about our experience and browsing our photos. Come back soon!

If you are interested in more ideas for things to do in Las Vegas you can contact me here to book your own vacation in Sin City!